Greenwood Pharmacies

September 15th is World Lymphoma Awareness Day

Lymphoma is a type of blood cancer that affects the lymphatic system, which is part of your body's immune system. While the word "cancer" can be frightening, knowledge is power — and early detection can significantly improve treatment outcomes.

What is Lymphoma?

Lymphoma occurs when lymphocytes (white blood cells) grow abnormally and accumulate in lymph nodes, bone marrow, or other organs. There are two main types:

Hodgkin Lymphoma: Less common but generally has better treatment outcomes
Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma: More common and includes many different subtypes

Early Warning Signs

Many lymphoma symptoms can be subtle and may resemble common illnesses. Watch for:

Painless swelling of lymph nodes in neck, armpits, or groin
Persistent fatigue that doesn't improve with rest
Unexplained weight loss (more than 10% of body weight)
Night sweats that soak your clothes or bedding
Persistent fever without obvious infection
Persistent cough or shortness of breath
Itchy skin without rash

⚠️ Important: These symptoms can have many causes. Having one or more doesn't mean you have lymphoma, but they warrant a medical evaluation.

Who is at Risk?

Age: Risk increases with age, though it can occur at any age
Immune System: People with weakened immune systems
Infections: Certain viral infections (like Epstein-Barr virus)
Family History: Having a close relative with lymphoma
Gender: Some types are more common in men, others in women

The Good News

Treatment for lymphoma has improved dramatically over the past decades. Many people with lymphoma go on to live normal, healthy lives. Early detection and proper treatment are key.

What You Can Do

Know Your Body: Be aware of changes and don't ignore persistent symptoms
Regular Check-ups: Maintain regular healthcare visits
Healthy Lifestyle: Eat well, exercise, and avoid smoking
Spread Awareness: Share information to help others recognize symptoms

💙 Support: If you or someone you know is affected by lymphoma, remember that support groups, counseling, and patient advocacy organizations can provide valuable resources and emotional support.

🎗️ Remember: This World Lymphoma Awareness Day, let's commit to spreading knowledge, supporting research, and encouraging early detection. Together, we can make a difference in the fight against lymphoma.